11/1/2026 7:45:00 PM | Wrestling
GLENVILLE, W.V. - The Millersville wrestling team opened its season at the Pioneer Open, hosted by Glenville State. The Marauders placed seventh out of 15 teams, with three wrestlers earning podium finishes.
Nick Bennett led the way for Millersville with a third-place finish at 165 pounds. Aidan Micheli and Mohammad Targali followed with sixth-place finishes at 141 and 285 pounds, respectively.
HOW IT HAPPENED
Bennett opened the day with a pin just one minute into his first match. He followed with a technical fall at 4:37 before claiming a major decision victory to advance to the semifinals. The senior fell short in the semifinals but bounced back in the third-place match, earning a decision victory to secure his podium finish.
Micheli finished the day with a 4-3 record at 141 pounds. He opened the tournament with two consecutive victories before suffering his first loss. The senior responded with back-to-back wins in the consolation bracket before falling in his sixth match. He finished the tournament in sixth place.
True freshman Mohammad Targali got his first taste of collegiate wrestling and made the most of the opportunity with a sixth-place finish. Targali earned a technical fall in his opening match before dropping his second bout. He responded with two more victories before falling in his final two matches of the day.
D'Amani Almodovar finished with a 4-2 record, narrowly missing a podium finish. Gavin Boland and Avery Aurand followed with 3-2 records at 125 and 184 pounds. Multiple other Maraduers competed but finished off the podium.
"We wrestled hard today and that's what we were looking for." said head coach Jerry Boland. "Everyone went out and competed. No one backed down. Of course we left with some things we need to work on. But overall we are pleased with our performance. It's something to build on. A lot of guys got their first college wins today. That's always cool. Definitely proud of Nick, Aidan and Mo for placing. Now it's time to get better"
UP NEXT
The Marauders will host their Black and Gold Dual next Saturday before welcoming York on Nov. 13.
